[Danny]

HURRAY! SOMEONE ELSE IS READING, AFTER ALL!

[one reader just isn't enough for a greedy writer like me, sorry drag...]

CHAPTER 51

“Look after Crim, won’t you?” Jal’s eyes gave away his concern.

Int nodded. “I think you’re going to need more looking after than us.”

A voice from their feet rose in agreement. “Yeah, I can look after myself!”

They were gathered on the crest of the hills surrounding the valley. Most of them were going into battle, but a few, such as Int, were staying to take care of the children. True to their word, the warriors had accepted Mat’s decision to cooperate with the sligs, but were making no attempt to conceal their distaste while they did. The stolen Crawler was being loaded with supplies and weapons. It was large enough to comfortably accommodate 800 passengers, so with a little squeezing, they expected to be able to get nearly all 2000 of their warriors on board. Alongside the Crawler, Meetles were being kitted out, for scouting missions. It had been relatively easy to alter the layout to include a Meetle roost, so they were taking 50 of their best into battle with them. Bil, Ana, Jal, and Greeb were stood with Int and Crim, saying awkward goodbyes.

Bil smiled. “We shouldn’t be long. In a week, we’ll either be returning victorious, or we’ll be dead.”

Int mirrored the smile. “See you in a week, then.”

Arim approached from the crawler, making a point of not looking at Greeb. “We’re just about ready to go, Bil.”

Bil turned. “Take care of the kids, Int.”

Int nodded, gloomily. “Good luck. Let’s hope you don’t need it.”

They stood in silence for a while, wondering if this would be the last time they would see each other, Then they boarded the Crawler, and Int and Crim watched it slowly pull away from the Village. They stood watching until they could no longer see the huge vehicle in the darkness.